The point is, Monday's lineup could end up being the worst one Manuel fields all season. He was without Placido Polanco, Shane Victorino and Chase Utley. Sure, you can throw Domonic Brown in there, who I still think plays a regular role eventually.

The pitching has been extremely good. If the Phillies (4.17 runs/game) can score just a tad above the league average (4.19 runs/game), it should be enough.

Of course, that does not bring solace after three lousy games or hope for Tuesday, with Jaime Garcia (1.89 ERA) on the mound.